Yew Hedge Spacing

Yew hedging, also known as taxus baccata, is one of the most highly valued hedges on the market, guaranteeing to add value instantly to any garden, public space and property. When yew hedge spacing isn’t applied correctly, you could be at risk of losing all benefits associated with taxus baccata hedging.

The dark-green, conifer foliage can be easily maintained, clipped and trimmed into precise shapes. It’s therefore no surprise that this dense evergreen hedge is typically used for formal displays.

When correctly planted and spaced, this steady growing conifer is perfect for creating a dark green background, distinct borders or to provide shelter and protection in certain areas.

With quicker than average regrowth and hardy in nature, rest assured an accidental slip of the garden trimmers will be forgiven.

Planting your Yew Hedges

Much like most plants, your yew hedges need light, air, food, drainage, water and a firm base.

To give your yew hedges the best start, ensure you plant in September through to October or from March to April. Although tolerant of most soils, also blend with manure or garden compost for the best planting conditions.

We recommend opting for bare-rooted or root-balled yews which are typically cheaper to buy and are bigger, stronger and establish more easily than container-grown or potted yew plants.

You will need to dig a trench 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide, all whilst removing weeds, roots, stones and any other debris from the excavated soil.

Spacing your Yew Hedges

When planting yew hedges, it is vital you get the spacing correct to ensure this beautiful yet formal plant looks aesthetically pleasing.

Depending on size, yew hedges should be planted with a density of 2-3 plants per metre, you can see our recommended spacing for each size next to the product photo.

When used as a formal display, it pays off to pay close attention to your lines and spacing. By using a string stretched between canes you can achieve a greater level of accuracy which will undoubtedly ensure your hedge lining is pleasing to the eye.

Once you’re happy with your hedge spacing, gently water the bare-rooted or root-balled yews to soak the jute and place back in the soil while ensuring each yew hedging is the same space apart and at the same level in the soil.

Remember to water well when planting is finished and do not let your soil bed dry out.

Hopes Grove Nurseries is one of the UK’s leading hedging specialists. With decades of experience and knowledge in everything from bare rooted hedging, rootball hedging to potted hedging and instant hedging

For more advice and guidance on how you should be spacing your yew hedges, please speak to one of our friendly team members by getting in touch.